Spike Swell Course

Sun 19 May 2013 Pull in this audio-visual journey to the deep ocean where huge forces fashion swells that bombard our coast, posing danger to vessels and coastal structures but also bringing perfect waves for surfers.

What is the swell course?

South African surf forecaster and founder of Wavescape, Spike, gives a multi-media presentation using video and graphics to discuss how waves form (CAUSE); how swell moves through the sea to arrive at the coast (EFFECT); how to interpret weather data; and to have some fun with crazy case studies. This fascinating, graphical journey brings home the catastrophic power of nature. Unique surf forecasting insights give it a unique perspective that appeals to all ocean users and interested people.

Who is it for?

* Marine industry (Salvors, harbour workers, lifeguards, fisheries, shipping)
* Ocean sports (surfers, sailors, kiters, boardsailors, divers, paddlers)
* Recreation (beachgoers, anglers)
* Other (retirees, paragliders, marine tour guides, oil rig staff, naval officers)

What do we cover?

* The genesis of ocean storms
* The destructive force of waves
* Video footage inside intense hurricanes
* Damage by freak waves & tsunamis
* Ways to understand wave power
* Ways to understand wave period
* Ways to interpret weather models
* Surfcasting tips and tricks
* Storm and big wave case studies

What is the format?

1. Section 1 (45 minutes): Global climate, forces of nature, genesis of storms and swell, anatomy of swell, the mathematical connection that governs how swell forms - Drinks break (10 minutes)

2. Section 2 (45 minutes): Propagation of swell, role of period, destructive forces, how swell becomes surf, shoaling, storm damage, shipwrecks - Light supper (25 minutes)

3. Section 3 (55 minutes): The internet, weather models, prediction and interpreting the data, big wave case studies, questions and open forum

What do people say about it?

"You've read his twisted humour in the surf reports. Now experience it in person, with 'stories from the deep' - simple explanations of where waves come from, and a generally fascinating delve into weather patterns, storms and swell from around the world. Oh, and you also get a great dinner, a few beers and the chance to skinner with other surfers and kiters. Highly recommended!" -- Ian Henderson (kitesurfer)

"Over the years I have attended dozens of courses on various topics but nothing has the vibe of having a real enthusiast share his passion. Multo obrigado." -- Mike Ohlson, Richards Bay

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Venue

Wavescape offices, 3rd Floor, Woodstock Exchange, 66 Albert Road, Woodstock

Time and Dates

6-9pm Tuesday 14 May / Thursday 16 May / Monday 20 May

What do you get for your bucks?

* Entertaining lecture using video, sound and animation
* Practical tips to enhance your lifestyle (and save you petrol)
* Refreshments (beer, wine and cooldrink) and basic supper (pizza and salad)
* A5 colour booklet with basic course information

Monday 20 May